During the previous 5 weeks isolation under Covid 19, level 4, most meat processing plants and their downstream industries have continued to operate, albeit in reduced capacity, due to protocols around self-distancing and regulations determined by the Ministry of Primary Industries (MPI).

Most of the workers in these facilities adapted and got on with their jobs, acknowledging a degree of risk existed in doing so. A minority of workers were unable to work due to underlying health issues or childcare responsibilities.

The NZ Meat Workers Union (MWU) has been front and centre working with industry players like Ministry for Primary Industries (PI), the Meat Industry Association (MIA) and the government to enable processing to continue.

Never before, in our history have we as working people and NZers faced a threat like that of COVID-19. MWU is working on the front line to support our members in an essential industry. We know there are so many questions and we will keep you up to date as much as possible. Today, here's our newsletter.

In this issue, safety in the Meat Industry and loss of one of our members ; Coronovirus ; initial advice ; the women who work behind the scenes in our National Union ; new National Secretary and dates to be aware of.

The National Returning Officer of the NZMWU has declared that Daryl Carran (current President of the Otago Southland Branch of the MWU) has been elected to the position of MWU National Secretary after his was the only nomination.

At this time of the year, nominations are called for many positions, including on-site leaders in MWU sites. Every three years, there is also an election for our MWU National Secretary. See here for how members can be involved.